CPL Boosts Sony Stock In New £1/4 Million Investment

This is to service current and ongoing work due to an excellent end to 2010 and a busy start to 2011, as well as to meet the increase in client demands for HD video, and to maintain the company's policy of keeping abreast of the latest technology in this fast moving world.

The cameras are Sony HXC-100 HD/SD studio spec units, chosen for their versatility, quality and user-friendliness. These are HD/SD switchable, can also run both formats simultaneously and have an array of programmable function buttons on the camera head. The camera uses the latest 14-bit A/D conversion circuit and 2/3-inch Power HAD FX CCDs for superior picture quality.

In addition to the standard Canon KJ17 lenses supplied with the cameras, Canon HJ40 long throw and HJ14 wide angle lenses are part of the purchase to offer maximum flexibility, along with AJA Ki Pro hard disk recorders for CPL's GV Kayak PPU. All the equipment was supplied to CPL by Visual Impact Northern.

CPL has three divisions - venue services, equipment hire and technical services - which supply video equipment, crew and technical support to a wide range of corporate presentations and live events of all sizes.

Many larger events have been using HD for some time, and it's now becoming increasingly popular for medium and smaller sized shows and presentations. CPL has also experienced an increase in business with video production and broadcast companies, providing a range of services including live streaming, webcasting and video links. Having a good stock of premium brand kit enables the supply of "Flexible cost efficient solutions to a wider range of clients including those wanting dry hires," confirms CPL Technical Director, Scott Pearson.

Pearson explains that as the Sony HXC-100 cameras supersede the workhorse D50/55 range that's been the rental staging and production industry standard for some time, it was a logical progression. The HXC-100s combine the reliability and straightforward functionality of the D50/55 with the new HD panels and chip.

They are also the first HD studio cameras offering newly developed digital triax technology enabling them to work with conventional triax cabling - a highly cost-effective option for live events and rental markets in these still budget conscious times.

The new camera purchase also completes CPL's existing HD video systems, which already include switchers and projectors.

CPL is currently collaborating with leading flightcase manufacturer 5 Star Cases to develop a packaging system to house its Sony HXC-100 camera systems in single flightcases for ultimate portability and ease of use.